Biggest Challenges Faced by a DEI Manager at SoundCloud
Tamura's biggest challenge as a DEI Manager at SoundCloud is overcoming the perception that DEI initiatives are performative, stating that "the biggest challenge is ensuring that...it's not just checking a box off," and building genuine trust and belief in the authenticity of the company's commitment to diversity and inclusion. This requires consistent effort throughout the year, not just during designated awareness months, to foster genuine engagement and avoid the appearance of mere compliance.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Authenticity and Workplace Culture, Building Trust and Belief, Overcoming Resistance to DEI Initiatives, Communication and Engagement
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Tamura Davis
DEI Manager
SoundCloud Inc
Loyola Marymount University
N/A
Business Management & Admin
Arts, Entertainment & Media, Technology
Human Resources (HR)
Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Tamura's biggest challenge is proving the authenticity of DEI initiatives and ensuring that they are not perceived as mere box-checking exercises.
2. Many companies initiated DEI programs in response to external pressure, leading to skepticism among employees.
3. Maintaining consistent DEI efforts throughout the year, rather than focusing solely on specific months or events, is crucial for building trust and demonstrating genuine commitment.
Transcript
What is your biggest challenge in your current role?
My biggest challenge is knowing that you're not always going to be right. I had to swallow that pill: you're not going to please everyone.
Not everyone is going to be as passionate about DEI topics, or attend workshops and trainings because they don't feel it's as important. I think DEI really came up for a lot of companies when everything happened with George Floyd.
So, a lot of people don't feel like companies are doing it out of true love and passion. It's really more about checking a box. The biggest challenge is ensuring that you're bringing authenticity, that DEI is genuine.
We're really trying to make sure that we're genuine about this in everything that we do, and it's not just checking a box. But again, if people are already in that mindset of, "Oh, we just have this new department because we want to hit protocol and don't want to get slapped on the wrist," that's the biggest challenge.
Bringing that authenticity is key. It's not just about highlighting employees during specific months, like Black History Month or Pride. It's about celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community throughout the year.
So, the biggest challenge is bringing that authenticity and ensuring you're bringing people along. Folks need to believe in what you're doing, and it's not just a checked-off box or a data point.